Course Overview
This course covers the history of fingerprints as it relates to individualization; friction skin development; how to obtain a proper set of known fingerprint impressions; the Henry Classification System, the Auto-Class Classification System and Real Time Identification (RTID) System; fingerprint individualization with emphasis on Ridgeology; palm print individualization including the use of palmar flexion creases; procedures utilized in crime scene examination and recovery of fingerprints; chemical techniques for fingerprint detection; the Identification of Criminals Act; and the expert witness in the Canadian Court System.
Prerequisite(s)
- Admission to a Forensic credential program or permission of the Program Coordinator.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course the student will be able to:
- Explain the history of fingerprint individualization.
- Define friction skin and how it is formed.
- Explain and defend, through scientific knowledge, how fingerprint individualization can be so positive and infallible.
- Define the composition of ecrine sweat.
- Explain the requirements of a properly obtained known set of fingerprints and demonstrate correct techniques.
- Explain both the Henry, Auto-Class classification systems and RTID.
- Explain how a fingerprint comparison is conducted and demonstrate correct techniques.
- Explain crime scene techniques for latent fingerprint examination and recovery.
- Explain chemical techniques for latent fingerprint examination.
- Define and understand the Identification of Criminals Act.
- Discuss various aspects of an expert witness in the Canadian court system.
Effective as of Fall 2015
Related Programs
The Science of Fingerprints - Theory (FSCT 8320) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Computing and Academic Studies
- Combined Honours in Biochemistry and Forensic Science
Bachelor of Science Full-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Advanced Certificate Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.